After exposing the public to a huckstered version of life in the West--via his Wild West Show--Nate Salsbury initiated a new production in 1895 called Black America. Black America set out not merely to entertain, but to educate the public about the lives blacks had led in the antebellum south. Though the show included some acts that were not typical elements of plantation life--juggling, tight-rope walking, and drills by black cavalry troops--it also featured a village with over 100 cabins where blacks portrayed activities such as picking cotton, operating cotton gins, itinerant preaching, and socializing.
Among the singing and dancing performances were examples of black culture that had developed under slavery, as well as newer creations. Show business considerations, as well as stereotypical thinking, resulted in the inclusion of minstrel songs, cakewalks, and tap dancing, but Salsbury's original purpose for creating the show was largely one of public education, and the Black America Show was less exploitative than other contemporary productions. It gave many African-Americans a foot in the door for careers in show business, and increased public awareness of their many skills and talents. Black America had runs in Brooklyn and several other U.S. cities.

Space/special requirements:

Travel restrictions:

Program fee:

Up to $100

Is this fee negotiable?

Yes

Mileage included?

No

If no, cost per mile:

$0.50

Notes about the fee:

No travel expenses charged for venues in the Albany/Saratoga/Glens Falls area. Fee is flexible. Contact me.

Other notes:

Mr. Fiske is the author of Solomon Northup: His Life Before and After Slavery.